Single-particle motional oscillator powered by laser

TL;DR

This paper explores how laser-induced radiation pressure can drive large, controllable motional oscillations in trapped particles, enabling novel applications like rotation sensing and isotope separation.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of a laser-powered motional oscillator in a trap, highlighting its near-threshold operation and hysteretic behavior for the first time.

Findings

Demonstrates large oscillations driven by blue-detuned laser radiation

Identifies conditions for hysteretic excitation of the oscillator

Proposes multiple practical applications for the oscillator

Abstract

An ion, atom, molecule or macro-particle in a trap can exhibit large motional oscillations due to the Doppler-affected radiation pressure by a laser, blue-detuned from an absorption line of a particle. This oscillator can be nearly thresholdless, but under certain conditions it may exhibit huge hysteretic excitation. Feasible applications include a "Foucault pendulum" in a trap, a rotation sensor, single atom spectroscopy, isotope separation, etc.